Public Hearing Improvements Project

Public Hearing Improvements Project

The City of Calgary ("The City") is improving the public hearing process to ensure that public hearings are accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly for the public.

Council Chamber lifecycle upgrades

Council Chamber in the Municipal Building opened 40 years ago and until 2024, much of it was original to its 1985 opening. It was due for upgrades, and we have completed a lifecycle upgrade and modernization project to make Council Chamber a more welcoming, accessible, and equitable space.

The first of this two-phased project was completed in August 2024 and focused on providing a more functional, ergonomically appropriate space for Council and Administration. Among the changes were upgraded seating with height adjustable desks, improved technology integration and an improved line of sight to presenters and colleagues.

The second phase of the project was done in August 2025 and centred on improving the usability and accessibility of the public gallery. Original fixed gallery seating was replaced to meet current code, ergonomic and accessibility standards and guidelines. Select seating has been equipped with power access so guests and employees can charge their devices during Council meetings. Dedicated seating has also been added to the presenters’ waiting area for those waiting to address Council.

The project was aligned with previously completed research and feedback. 

These lifecycle upgrades are meant to help Calgarians take part in city government discussions in a more welcoming and accessible space.

What is a public hearing?

Members of City Council meet regularly to discuss issues such as policies, bylaws, budget, and major projects affecting Calgary.

If an individual is concerned about a Council or committee item, they may attend a public hearing during a Council or standing policy committee meeting to communicate their views directly to Council.

This builds public confidence and encourages civic engagement.

About the project

On March 22, 2021, Council directed The City to develop a more user-friendly and inclusive public hearing process. The City held a public engagement to determine how to remove barriers from citizens being able to participate in a public hearing.

These barriers included, but are not limited to:

  • time it takes to prepare
  • lack of awareness about how to register and prepare a submission
  • clarity on influence of submissions
  • stress for some people of speaking about a personal issue
  • perceived inequities
  • respectful environment
  • accessibility issues such as language, childcare, and parking costs 

Public hearing recommendations

On March 15, 2022, Council received a report on the Public Hearing Improvements Project. Recommendations included:

  • Accessibility

    Implementing inclusive initiatives to reduce barriers for Public Hearing participants, such as childminding, parking, and transit ticket programs.

  • Automated registration system

    This will ensure a more inclusive, accessible, and user-friendly experience for the public wishing to provide input on important matters being considered at Council.

  • Digital Equity

    Providing opportunities, tools, and resources that support the public with the Public Hearing process.

  • Inclusion

    Developing a statement that endorses The City’s commitment to anti-racism, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Project timeline

The goal of this project is to address the barriers identified when participating in a public hearing. 

Supporting documents

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